Wheeler, Eugene Hagy

Eugene Hagy Wheeler, 88, of Charlotte, N.C., formerly of Blacksburg, Va., passed away Saturday, September 22, 2007 at North Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Born on November 11, 1918 in Big Stone Gap, Va., he was the son of the late Thomas Harrmon Wheeler and Martha Alice Kennedy Wheeler. Gene was an Army World War II veteran, having served in the Philippine Islands. Prior to being called into service, Gene attended three years at VA Tech, and was on the varsity football team. He worked as a firefighter/security police at the Radford Arsenal and retired with 33 years of service.

During their retirement, Gene and Nell enjoyed travelling, and keeping up with their children and friends and attending VA Tech home football games. An avid golfer, Gene always found time for a round of golf and spending special time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 66 years, Nell; one son, Tom Wheeler of Dublin, Va.; two daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Charles Vandenberg of Charlotte, N.C., Rita and Dick Kruger of North Myrtle Beach, S.C.; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Gene was predeceased by three brothers, Joe, Ken and Tom.

A private service for the family will be held on Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11 a.m. in Lee Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Regency Hospice, 11943 Grand Haven Drive, Suite A, Garden City, SC 29576. Lee Funeral Home & Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is serving the family.